Do Somali citizens need a TB test?

Yes. Somalia is on the Home Office list requiring TB screening. Testing may need to be done in neighbouring countries such as Kenya or Ethiopia.

What are the main routes for Somali nationals?

The main routes are family reunion (joining relatives with refugee status or settled status), asylum, Skilled Worker visa, and student visa.

Is Somalia a majority English-speaking country?

No. Somali applicants must pass an approved English language test for most visa routes.

How do I get a Somali police certificate?

Given the situation in Somalia, the Home Office may waive or modify the police certificate requirement. Consult your solicitor about alternatives.

Moving to the UK from Somalia: Guide 2026

The Somali community in the UK is one of the largest in Europe. Many Somalis have arrived as refugees or through family reunion. This guide covers the available pathways and practical considerations.

Visa Routes for Somali Citizens

Family reunion. If a family member has refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK.
Family visa. If your spouse has British citizenship or settled status. See the spouse visa guide.
Skilled Worker visa. Requires a licensed sponsor at the minimum salary.
Student visa. See the student visa guide.
Asylum. For those with a well-founded fear of persecution.

Document Requirements

Somali passport (where available). The Home Office makes allowances for document difficulties.
TB test. Required. May need to test in Kenya (Nairobi) or Ethiopia (Addis Ababa).
English language test. Required for most routes. Not required for asylum or family reunion.
Police certificate. May be waived depending on circumstances.

The Somali Community in the UK

The Somali community in the UK numbers over 100,000, making it one of the largest Somali communities outside East Africa. Major concentrations exist in London (Tower Hamlets, Ealing, Camden), Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Sheffield, Leicester, and Cardiff. Somali community organisations, mosques, and cultural centres provide extensive support.

After Arrival

Collect your BRP if applicable
Apply for a National Insurance number
Register with a GP
Open a UK bank account
Contact local Somali community organisations for support

Path to Settlement

After 5 years on a qualifying visa or with refugee status, apply for ILR. After 12 months with ILR, apply for British citizenship. Somalia permits dual citizenship.

Next Steps

For family reunion, visit the GOV.UK family reunion page. For asylum claims, see the GOV.UK asylum page.